Cycling “Nuts and Bolts” Books: Repair, Training, Fit, and Touring (Commonly Recommended)
Last Updated: December 2025
Cycling “Nuts and Bolts” Books: Repair, Training, Fit, and Touring (Commonly Recommended)
If you want the practical side of cycling — fixing things, training smarter, riding pain-free, and doing longer rides with fewer surprises — books can beat random videos. They’re slower, clearer, and they don’t disappear when a platform changes.
Important note (honest + simple): I’m sharing these as well-regarded, widely recommended cycling reference books — not as personal “I used this exact one” endorsements. Use this list as a strong starting point, then pick the one that matches what you’re trying to learn.
1) The Park Tool Big Blue Book of Bicycle Repair
A classic home-workshop repair guide. This is one of the most commonly recommended “start here” repair references because it’s structured, visual, and step-by-step.
2) Zinn & the Art of Road Bike Maintenance
Frequently recommended for road cyclists who want a deeper, more detailed maintenance and troubleshooting book (especially if you like thorough explanations).
3) Zinn & the Art of Mountain Bike Maintenance
Same idea as the road version, but aimed at MTB parts and setups. Useful if your readers ride trails, gravel, or mixed terrain and keep breaking “mountain-ish” components.
4) Total Bike Maintenance
A popular “broad coverage” option that many cyclists like as a single reference for common fixes, basic maintenance routines, and general troubleshooting.
Training (for regular riders, not just racers)
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The Cyclist’s Training Bible
One of the most commonly referenced training books in cycling — especially for building a plan, improving endurance, and understanding how to progress without burning out. -
The Time-Crunched Cyclist
Popular for people who want better fitness without living on the bike. Focuses on efficiency and making limited time count. -
Cycling Science
More “why it works” than “do this workout.” Commonly recommended for cyclists who like understanding the physiology and performance side.
Bike Fit, Comfort, and Injury Prevention
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Bike Fit
Often recommended for riders who are dealing with pain, numb hands, saddle issues, or recurring aches and want to understand fit fundamentals. -
The Midlife Cyclist
Frequently recommended for older riders who want practical training and recovery advice that matches real aging bodies (sleep, strength, recovery, consistency).
Touring and Long-Distance Practical Guides
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Lonely Planet Epic Bike Rides of the World
A popular long-distance cycling book that blends route ideas, logistics, and inspiration. Often used by riders planning their first big trip or dreaming up the next one. -
Bicycling the Pacific Coast
A well-known, route-specific touring guide covering one of the most popular long-distance rides in the U.S., with planning tips, maps, and practical considerations.
Quick “Grab It and Fix It” References
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Bicycle Repair Manual
A straightforward “do the job” manual that many riders like to keep around as a backup reference when something’s squeaking, shifting badly, or rubbing.
Quick Take (If You Only Buy One)
- For repairs: start with a Park Tool-style repair guide.
- For training: pick a “plan builder” book (Training Bible) or a “busy rider” book (Time-Crunched).
- For comfort: a fit-focused book can save you more pain than any new gear.
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